Fuerteventura is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, has a spectacular volcanic landscape and beaches that are 20 kilometres long. Don’t you think it’s the perfect place for a romantic break? If partners in crime Bonnie and Clyde had chosen an island to escape to far from the rest of the world, they’d almost certainly have chosen Fuerteventura.
This paradise in the Canary Islands archipelago has a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere as well as a great range of hotels and food options. The perfect combination when you want to relax and spend a few days with your partner, far away from it all. In addition, the temperate climate (around 20 ºC all year round) means you can enjoy stunning beaches, excursions and outdoor activities.
The magic of Corralejo
The beautiful city of Corralejo in the north of the island is famous for its idyllic beaches, giant sand dunes and endless range of leisure activities. It’s the perfect place to use as a departure point for exploring the island and discovering its most romantic spots. Boats depart from Corralejo port for nearby Lobos Island, a volcanic islet with lovely beaches. Having a picnic in the sunshine on this tiny island in the middle of the Atlantic definitely makes an unforgettable day out. A sunset sailing boat trip is another fantastic way to win your true love’s heart; there are several companies that run all kinds of boat excursions from the port.
Another sure bet is climbing the Dunas de Corralejo sand dunes, one of the most enchanting areas of the island. This sea of sand runs parallel to the coast and is around eight kilometres long. Some of the sand dunes are 50 metres high and it’s worth climbing to the very top to enjoy views of unspoilt beaches and feel the fine sand between your toes.
The Barranco de los Enamorados is a half-hour drive from Corralejo and is the perfect spot for a day trip—go on a 6-km hike through an extraordinary moonlike landscape. Ocean levels changed 135,000 years ago to create a series of impressive fossilized sand dunes that have gradually been eroded over time to form these playful geological jewels.
You may well be getting hungry after all this activity: don’t think twice and head straight to Restaurante Rompeolas, a seafaring-style restaurant that serves simple food made from first-class ingredients. It has a cosy atmosphere and magnificent views from its terrace, just three metres from the beach.
A great way to end a day of tourism is to enjoy a spa treatment at one of the island’s specialised centres. The Thalasso Spa at the Barceló Fuerteventura has an enticing therapy called the ‘Fuerteventura Desert Experience’. This treatment combines the properties of volcanic stone and aloe vera, two products found naturally on the island.
Caribbean beaches in Fuerteventura
The beaches of El Cotillo can be classified according to their location: those north of the village have white sand and tranquil waters, while those to the south are wilder and perfect for doing water sports.
Famous La Concha beach is north of El Cotillo. It has fine, white sand, and incredible calm waters that are protected by a natural reef where you can spot fish and other marine species. To the far left it’s linked to a series of coves known as Los Lagos, the ideal place for relaxing. Similarly, El Charcón is also nearby, an enormous ‘salt lake’ with turquoise waters that is a great spot for naturism. Caleta del Marrajo is another stunning white sand cove that is relatively undiscovered by tourists: ideal for unwinding away from other beach-goers.
El Tostón is south of El Cotillo, close to El Tostón castle. Its powerful waves are great for doing sports like windsurfing. Another option is visiting the golden sands of Aljibe de la Cueva beach, which is open to the ocean and is popular with surfers. At its far south it joins up with Playa Piedra beach, which has similar characteristics but is longer.
Although it’s not in the El Cotillo area, Cofete beach deserves a special mention because many consider it to be the best beach in Fuerteventura, if not the Canary Islands! This wild, unspoilt beach is 12 kilometres long with golden sand. It’s a bit more challenging to reach because it doesn’t have a tarmacked road but swimming here among the impressive Jandía mountains is definitely worth the extra effort.
Betancuria, the historic capital of the Canary Islands
This picturesque village in the valley of the Betancuria massif is the oldest village in Fuerteventura and perhaps its best hidden treasure. Although it’s one of the villages with the fewest inhabitants on the island, wandering among its streets and hermitages is a treat for the senses. Every corner is steeped in history and, unlike the rest of the island, Betancuria offers a green respite in the middle of the desert. Here you’ll find the Restaurante La Sombra whose lovely patio seems to transport you to a genuine oasis. It’s a great choice for lunch or a romantic dinner.
The road to Betancuria is dotted with impressive white windmills decorated with volcanic stones. These solitary giants of the wind welcome you to the island’s past and have stood on the inland plains for several dozens of years.
In Fuerteventura, it doesn’t matter if you prefer the beach or the mountains because you have thousands of options to choose between and the best possible backdrop to your holiday.
